Nutrition

For many Thais, the sun is a constant and often welcome companion, yet concerns about vitamin D deficiency and skin health have made sun exposure a topic of growing debate. According to the latest research featured in an in-depth article by Verywell Health, experts now confirm that just a few minutes in the midday sun can be enough to produce sufficient vitamin D—while reminding the public that sun safety must take priority to reduce the ever-present risk of skin cancer (Verywell Health).

In a recent consensus among registered dietitians, hibiscus tea has claimed the crown as the number one tea for hydration, offering a vibrant, caffeine-free alternative to plain water that packs a punch of antioxidants and electrolytes. As the global demand for healthy, natural beverages surges, this tropical favorite—well-known in Thailand as “nam krachiap” (น้ำกระเจี๊ยบ)—is drawing new scientific scrutiny and cultural appreciation for its wide health benefits and unique place in the local diet. Experts urge Thai readers to embrace this homegrown treasure both for its hydration and its broader wellness potential.

A panel of registered dietitians now ranks hibiscus tea as a top choice for hydration. This caffeine-free, antioxidantal beverage—known in Thailand as nam krachiap—offers a refreshing alternative to water and fits traditional Thai tastes. As demand for natural, healthful drinks grows, hibiscus is earning renewed scrutiny for its wellness potential and its place in the Thai diet.

In Thailand’s hot climate, staying hydrated is a daily challenge. Fresh guidance now highlights herbal teas, especially hibiscus, as effective tools for maintaining fluid balance without the diuretic effects of caffeinated beverages. Hibiscus tea comes from the dried petals of Hibiscus sabdariffa and is naturally caffeine-free. It also provides minerals such as potassium and magnesium that support hydration and muscle function. Data from reputable sources in nutrition reinforce these benefits.

A growing Thai audience faces a familiar dilemma: how to get enough vitamin D from sunlight without elevating skin-cancer risk. A recent synthesis of scientific findings shows that brief midday sun exposure can meet daily needs for many adults, but safety and lifestyle factors determine the real balance between sun and health.

In Thailand’s sun-rich climate, many people still miss out on vitamin D due to modern routines—long indoor hours, dense urban living, and beauty standards that favor lighter skin. Health experts emphasize that a few minutes of direct sun around midday, with a portion of the body exposed, can help most adults meet daily vitamin D targets. The emphasis, however, is on moderation and protection from ultraviolet radiation. Research summarized for Thai readers suggests that 10–30 minutes of sun exposure, with about 25% of the skin exposed on arms and legs, often suffices in spring and summer. By contrast, in winter or higher latitudes, longer exposure may be necessary to achieve the same effect. For Thailand’s latitude, the sun is generally favorable, but daily habits decide the outcome.

A wave of nutrition science is reshaping the view that regular soda is always worse than its diet counterpart. In Thailand, health experts and policymakers are watching closely as studies suggest diet soda can be a safer option for some people when consumed in moderation and within a balanced Thai diet. This discussion comes as the country tackles rising obesity and sugar-related illnesses.

Thai dietary guidance has long urged a shift away from both sugary and artificially sweetened drinks toward water, milk, and unsweetened teas. Globally, regular soda is linked to higher risks of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. In 2022, Thailand’s adult obesity rate reached a striking high, underscoring public health priorities to reduce sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and promote healthier hydration habits.

Healthy eating doesn’t have to mean strict diets. Leading nutrition researchers now advocate simple, enjoyable habits that fit into daily life. A recent overview highlights five practical keys: focus on whole foods, choose healthy fats, watch added sugars, cook at home, and savor meals. This approach aligns with Thai eating traditions that celebrate fresh ingredients, shared meals, and flavorful, nourishing food.

For Thai readers, these principles are especially relevant. Thailand’s rich food culture already emphasizes balance and community. Now the science supports adapting these ideas to everyday choices, so people can stay connected to cherished flavors while boosting health. Our analysis draws on research reviewed by experts from national nutrition programs and a Stanford medicine professor, who collectively outline actionable steps for daily life.

Nutrition experts are urging people to move beyond restrictive diets and embrace simple, enjoyable ways to eat well, according to the latest guidance highlighted in a New York Times feature on healthy eating strategies (nytimes.com). With a constant influx of fad diets and confusing health advice, the new consensus emphasizes whole foods, balanced fats, sugar awareness, home cooking, and, perhaps most importantly, finding joy in healthy meals.

For Thai readers, where eating culture is rich, communal, and deeply valued, understanding and applying practical, science-backed principles to daily food choices is as important as staying connected to cherished culinary traditions. Recent research reviewed by noted nutrition scientists like the National Institutes of Health’s nutrition researcher and a Stanford professor of medicine delivers five practical “keys” to healthy eating, all of which can be integrated with ease into the average Thai lifestyle.

A new wave of research-supported attention is casting a spotlight on foods that have long flown under the radar, overshadowed by trendy “superfoods.” According to leading nutritionists cited in a recent investigative feature by AOL, foods like celery, prunes, and sardines offer surprising health benefits that deserve a regular place on our plates, especially for Thai consumers interested in boosting health in affordable and practical ways (AOL).

While apples and bananas are celebrated for their convenience and accessibility, they’re not the only ingredients delivering essential nutrients. As one New York-based assistant dean from a health professions school explains, eating a broader range of foods exposes us to a richer diversity of vitamins and minerals—and can also brighten up our culinary routines. This is particularly relevant in Thailand, where local diets often centre around a handful of well-loved fruits, vegetables, and grains, but might overlook some globally recognized powerhouses.

A new wave of nutrition science is challenging the once simple narrative that regular soda is always worse than its diet counterpart, sparking debate among Thai health experts and policymakers alike. Recent research reveals that, in many cases, diet soda may actually offer a safer alternative—provided it is consumed in moderation and within the context of a balanced Thai diet. As Thailand battles rising obesity and sugar-related illnesses, the implications of these findings are more relevant than ever before.

Creatine is growing in popularity among Thai athletes and health enthusiasts. The big question now is: when is the best time to take it for maximum benefits? New studies and expert opinions are clarifying how timing, meals, and safety influence health, strength, and cognitive performance. This piece distills current findings for Thai readers and emphasizes practical advice and product quality.

Creatine is a naturally occurring compound found in meat and seafood and produced by the body from amino acids. It supports energy production, muscle strength, and post-exercise recovery. Emerging evidence also points to potential cognitive benefits, which makes creatine attractive not only to athletes but also to students, professionals, and older adults seeking a sharper mind and sustained energy. Research by reputable health and nutrition experts suggests timing matters to optimize these effects.

A new wave of studies is spotlighting foods often overlooked in favor of trendy “superfoods.” Nutrition experts cited in a recent investigative feature emphasize that celery, prunes, sardines, and other common ingredients can offer meaningful health benefits when incorporated regularly. This perspective is especially relevant for Thai readers seeking affordable, practical ways to improve well-being.

While apples and bananas are convenient staples, a broader variety of foods helps ensure a richer intake of vitamins and minerals. In Thailand, where traditional diets center on beloved fruits, vegetables, and grains, expanding choices can diversify nutrition without sacrificing flavor or affordability.

As creatine gains traction among athletes and health-conscious individuals in Thailand, the question of optimal timing for maximum effect has taken centre stage. Recent research and expert opinions now shed new light on how and when to take creatine to reap the greatest health, strength, and cognitive benefits. Drawing from the latest findings published by reputable health and nutrition experts, this report unpacks the science, examines the practical implications for Thai readers, and highlights the importance of supplement safety and authenticity in a rapidly growing market.

A recent study in Cell Reports investigates how fats in olive oil, particularly oleic acid, may influence how the body stores fat. The researchers found that high levels of oleic acid could promote the growth of fat cells in mice through a specific cellular pathway. While olive oil is widely praised for heart health and antioxidant benefits, this study highlights a nuanced relationship between fat type, amount, and long-term weight management.

A groundbreaking new study has put olive oil—the so-called “liquid gold” prized in cuisines from Mediterranean to modern Thai kitchens—under the spotlight for its potential effects on body fat. The research, published in the prestigious journal Cell Reports and widely covered by the media (NY Post), suggests that high levels of oleic acid, the primary monounsaturated fat in olive oil, can trigger a rapid rise in the number of “fat cell soldiers” in the body. While olive oil has long been lauded for its heart-healthy and antioxidant-rich profile, this new evidence suggests its impact on obesity and metabolic health may be more complex than previously thought.

A wave of new research and expert consensus is helping consumers choose healthier seafood. A recent national report highlights seafood as a nutritional powerhouse for brain, eye, and heart health. These findings resonate with Thai readers as diets evolve in a fast-changing food landscape.

Thai seafood lovers can enjoy the ocean’s bounty, but experts urge smart selection to maximize benefits and reduce risks from mercury and environmental impact. Regular seafood consumption remains linked to lower risk of heart disease and premature death. Large meta-analyses show that higher fish intake correlates with better cardiovascular outcomes, and even a modest daily intake can reduce early mortality. The American Heart Association recommends two servings of seafood weekly as a strong safeguard against heart disease, stroke, and sudden cardiac death when chosen as a healthier protein option.

A new wave of scientific research and expert consensus is helping consumers make smarter choices about the healthiest seafood to put on their plates. Studies highlighted in a recent report by The Washington Post underscore that seafood is a nutritional powerhouse, essential for brain, eye, and heart health—an insight that holds growing resonance for Thai consumers as dietary patterns shift in a rapidly modernizing food landscape (Washington Post).

Thai seafood lovers may feel at home with the ocean’s bounty, but health experts urge careful selection to maximize benefits and minimize risks, especially regarding mercury and sustainability. The report indicates that regular seafood consumption is critical: meta-analyses cited found that eating more fish is strongly linked to reduced risk of heart disease and premature death. For instance, a 2020 meta-analysis covering over 900,000 people revealed a consistent association between higher fish consumption and lower cardiovascular disease risk. Another meta-study of around 670,000 individuals found that just half a serving of fish per day cut early mortality rates by 12%. Such compelling results led the American Heart Association to declare that one to two servings of seafood weekly can sharply reduce risks of heart disease, stroke, and sudden cardiac death, particularly when such meals replace less healthy meat choices.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has long held a place in traditional remedies, but viral social media trends and health claims have propelled this humble condiment to stardom in recent years. With bottled drinks, capsules, and gummies lining supermarket shelves in Thailand, the question remains: does apple cider vinegar truly deliver on its promises, or is it just another fleeting wellness fad? We break down the most recent scientific research and interview insights from nutrition experts, offering a clear, practical guide for Thai readers seeking reliable health information.

A new review asks: are boiled eggs good for your health? Boiled eggs are a staple on Thai breakfast tables and street carts, prized for convenience and nutrition. The latest insights come from health experts in the United States and aim to clarify their role in a balanced Thai diet, including concerns about cholesterol and heart health. Data and perspectives from Thai health authorities are woven in to reflect local relevance.

A recent analysis shines new light on the longstanding question: Are boiled eggs good for your health? With their reputation as a convenient, nutrient-packed breakfast food, boiled eggs—a staple on Thai breakfast tables and street vendor carts—are being reconsidered in light of the latest scientific findings published by US health experts (Times-Gazette, 2025). This report evaluates the nutritional contents of boiled eggs, their potential risks for cholesterol-sensitive individuals, and how they fit into contemporary Thai dietary patterns.

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) remains a kitchen staple, but viral wellness trends have pushed it into the spotlight. In Thailand, bottled drinks, capsules, and gummies flood stores, prompting questions about real benefits versus hype. This piece distills recent science and expert insight for Thai readers, offering practical guidance.

Interest in ACV’s health claims is rising in Thailand, mirroring global curiosity. Thai readers often recall celebrities praising ACV shots for detox, weight management, or digestion. While ACV has ancient roots in kitchens worldwide, current research adds nuance and cautions for everyday use.

A viral wellness trend promoting raw, unpasteurized milk has surged online, drawing warnings from medical experts and public health officials. Influencers on platforms like TikTok and Instagram tout supposed benefits, while health professionals stress significant risks from consuming unpasteurized dairy. This social-media-driven movement reaches urban Thai audiences quickly, challenging long-standing food-safety wisdom and affecting local readers.

Interest in raw milk isn’t new, but its rapid spread on social media adds a modern twist. Advocates claim unpasteurized milk preserves enzymes and nutrients harmed by pasteurization and may aid digestion. Messages tied to primal living and natural health draw millions of views, appealing especially to younger wellness followers who question mainstream food processing. However, these narratives often lack robust science and overlook documented dangers.

A viral “wellness” trend—drinking raw, unpasteurized milk—has swept through online communities, raising alarm among medical experts and public health officials worldwide. As influencers tout raw milk’s supposed health benefits on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, healthcare professionals urgently warn of serious risks associated with consuming unpasteurized dairy. This surge in interest, driven largely by social media wellness influencers, is confronting long-standing public health wisdom and challenging how consumers in Thailand, and elsewhere, assess food safety.

A new wave of research is upending long-held assumptions about sugar, revealing that consuming sugar in beverages—such as sodas, fruit juices, and energy drinks—may pose a significantly higher risk for type 2 diabetes and metabolic illness compared to eating the same amount of sugar in solid foods. The findings, drawn from a major meta-analysis and recently published studies, highlight the unique dangers of “liquid sugar” and call for renewed scrutiny of sugary drink consumption, especially in countries like Thailand where sweetened drinks are a staple of daily life.

New research challenges the old view that all sugars are alike. It finds that consuming sugar in beverages—sodas, fruit juices, energy drinks—may raise the risk of type 2 diabetes more than eating the same amount of sugar in solid foods. This landmark meta-analysis and related studies highlight the dangers of “liquid sugar” and call for renewed focus on sugary drinks in Thailand, where such beverages are deeply woven into daily life.